Cruz shock at World Cup call Tuesday 16 May, 2006
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inter striker Julio Ricardo Cruz admits he was more surprised than anyone to see his name in Argentina’s World Cup side.
“To be called to represent your nation at the World Cup is one of the most important honours a player can have. I feel complete as a footballer after this,” said the former Bologna man.
The Nerazzurri forward was a shock choice from Coach Jose Pekerman, especially as Inter teammates Javier Zanetti, Walter Samuel, Juan Sebastian Veron, Santiago Solari and Kily Gonzalez will be watching from home.
“It’s a shame, as they are very important players for both Inter and world football. I didn’t know what would happen, so I turned off my phone because I wanted to be free from distractions and rumours. There was talk of my call in Argentina, but I was only sure when I saw my name on the list.”
The 31-year-old has had his most prolific season since his Feyenoord days, notching up 21 goals between Serie A and the Champions League.
“Certainly my campaign with Inter has been key to getting me into the side and I never expected to be the Nerazzurri’s top scorer. It was a special victory for me, as I thought I’d be part of the 2002 World Cup squad in Japan and Korea, but didn’t get the call. I was extremely disappointed at the time, but now one of my children is seven years old and can already understand how wonderful it’d be to see his Dad play in the biggest tournament in the world.”
Argentina crashed out of that competition in the first round, but Cruz is confident they can make an impact in Germany.
“Nothing is easy in the World Cup. We’ll play some big sides and I think we have the elements to reach the Final, hopefully against Brazil.” |
IP卡
狗仔卡
發表於 2006-5-16 18:02:28
顯身å¡
發表於 2006-5-16 20:35:26
發表於 2006-5-17 00:57:13
